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Many studies show that children whose parents read to them tend to perform better in school. Children also learn grammar, sentence structure and communication skills from an early age and develop quicker as a result. Here are some classics – some old, some new – to keep you and your child entertained as they hone these important development tools:
1. Where the Sidewalk Ends, by Shel Silverstein
Voltaire said, “Poetry is the music of the soul, and, above all, of great and feeling souls.” With simple rhyme scheme and absurd illustrations, your children will learn the building blocks of communication from a master poet. Shel Silverstein. Silverstein, whose works include the words to “A Boy Named Sue,” made famous by Johnny Cash, wrote works of poetry enjoyed by generations of children. Try even singing the words to help your child’s development!
2. Where the Wild Things Are, by Maurice Sendak
The deservedly over-sized book has illustrations of monsters that are grotesque and adorable and drip with texture, which will surely spark in your child an early love for art. Your children will love the illustrations and surely will understand the raucous sense of adventure spewing from its pages. Best of all, its relatively short length and wonderful story make Where the Wild Things Are a place you and your children can visit over and over again!
3. The Wizard of Oz, by L. Frank Baum
While everyone enjoys the classic movie, try reading the series to your children. The colorful characters and easy to understand narrative of Baum’s classic novel will be entertaining to even a newborn. Try using different voices for the many diverse characters. This will not only be more entertaining for your child, but will help them develop an ear for distinguishing character. Also, you might find the deviations from the movie entertaining yourself!
These classics are time-tested to entertain you and your children. Not only that, but with reading to your child, develop their love for the arts as well as their communication skills.















